Collecting postcards, also known as deltiology, is a fascinating and accessible hobby that allows enthusiasts to explore history, culture, and art from around the world. Postcards provide a unique glimpse into different periods and places, capturing everything from major historical events to everyday scenes. Whether you're drawn to vintage postcards, scenic landscapes, or rare limited editions, collecting postcards offers endless possibilities for discovery and enjoyment.
Historical Significance: Postcards are valuable historical artifacts that offer insights into the past. They capture moments in time, showcase architectural landmarks, document important events, and reflect social customs and fashions. For example, postcards from World War I and II provide visual records of wartime experiences, while Victorian-era postcards offer a glimpse into the social etiquette and artistic styles of the time.
Artistic Value: Postcards are small works of art, often featuring beautiful illustrations, photographs, and designs. Many collectors are attracted to the artistic styles showcased on postcards, from Art Nouveau and Art Deco to vintage advertisements and hand-painted scenes. Artists like Alphonse Mucha, Raphael Kirchner, and Louis Wain created some of the most sought-after postcards, making them collectibles in their own right.
Cultural Exploration: Collecting postcards allows you to explore different cultures, places, and traditions. Scenic postcards capture landscapes, cityscapes, and tourist attractions from around the world, while others feature traditional costumes, folklore, and customs. This makes postcards a wonderful way to learn about different countries and regions.
Nostalgia and Sentimental Value: Postcards evoke a sense of nostalgia and can be deeply personal. Many people collect postcards that remind them of their childhood, family vacations, or places they've lived. They may also collect postcards sent by loved ones, preserving memories and personal connections.
Affordability and Accessibility: Postcard collecting is an affordable hobby that is accessible to everyone. While rare and antique postcards can be valuable, there are countless options available at reasonable prices. You can find postcards at flea markets, antique shops, garage sales, online marketplaces, and even in your own mailbox.
Community and Connection: Postcard collecting connects people around the world who share a passion for history, art, and culture. Collectors often join clubs, attend postcard fairs, and participate in online forums where they can exchange knowledge, trade cards, and share stories about their collections.
Real Photo Postcards (RPPCs): Real photo postcards are created using actual photographic processes rather than being printed from a reproduction. These postcards, popular in the early 20th century, are often one-of-a-kind and highly valued by collectors. RPPCs can capture historical events, street scenes, local people, and landmarks.
Topographical and Scenic Postcards: These postcards feature landscapes, cityscapes, and tourist attractions. Collectors often focus on specific locations, such as their hometown, favorite vacation spots, or historic sites. Scenic postcards provide a visual record of how places have changed over time.
Art Postcards: Art postcards showcase a wide range of artistic styles, from famous paintings to illustrations and graphic designs. Collectors may focus on a particular artist, artistic movement (like Art Nouveau or Art Deco), or theme (such as animals, flowers, or fashion).
Holiday and Greeting Postcards: Holiday postcards, such as Christmas, Easter, and Halloween cards, are popular among collectors. These postcards often feature charming and colorful illustrations, reflecting the customs and traditions of the time. Collectors may also seek out greeting postcards for birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions.
Advertising Postcards: Advertising postcards, also known as trade cards, were used by businesses to promote their products or services. They often feature eye-catching graphics, slogans, and imagery related to various industries, such as automobiles, food, beverages, and fashion. Collectors are drawn to these cards for their vibrant designs and their role in the history of advertising.
Comic and Humorous Postcards: Comic postcards are designed to be humorous or entertaining, often featuring cartoons, jokes, or satirical commentary. They became especially popular in the early 20th century and remain a favorite among collectors today.
Historical Event Postcards: Postcards commemorating significant historical events, such as World Wars, coronations, expositions, and sporting events, are highly collectible. These cards provide a visual record of major moments in history and are often valued for their rarity and historical context.
Novelty Postcards: Novelty postcards come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. They can feature mechanical parts, pop-up elements, embossing, or special textures. Some may have added elements like fabric, feathers, or metallic inks. Novelty cards are often collected for their creativity and uniqueness.
Patriotic and Military Postcards: Postcards featuring patriotic themes, military scenes, soldiers, and wartime propaganda were popular during conflicts like World War I and II. Collectors are drawn to these postcards for their historical value and their role in shaping public opinion during war times.
Exposition and World's Fair Postcards: Expositions and World's Fairs, such as the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago or the 1939 New York World's Fair, produced numerous postcards depicting the architecture, exhibits, and attractions of these grand events. Collectors prize these cards for their historical significance and vivid depictions of innovation and culture.
Choose a Focus: With so many types of postcards available, it's helpful to define a specific focus for your collection. You might choose a theme (such as lighthouses, trains, or flowers), a period (Victorian, Edwardian, or mid-20th century), or a geographic location (your hometown, country, or a favorite travel destination).
Research and Learn: Educate yourself about the history of postcards, the different types and styles, and the market for collectible postcards. Books, online resources, postcard clubs, and exhibitions can provide valuable information and insights.
Start Small: Begin with a few affordable postcards to get a feel for the hobby and learn more about your preferences. Look for postcards at flea markets, antique shops, estate sales, and online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy. You can also start by sorting through family postcards that may already be in your possession.
Join a Community: Join the ICA, which offers a vast selection of access opportunities to engage with other postcard collectors by joining clubs, online forums, or social media groups. Networking with other enthusiasts can help you find rare postcards, learn about new trends, and share your passion for collecting.
Attend Postcard Fairs and Shows: Visit postcard fairs, antique shows, and ephemera exhibitions to meet other collectors, discover new postcards, and learn from experts. These events are great places to find unique or rare postcards.
When considering a purchase always practice due diligence. Once ready to begin your hunt, you can start with ICA Certified Retailers, the ICA Marketplace offered through the International Collectors Association (ICA), enthusiast websites, dealers, auctions, and various events like conventions, shows, and expos. Many of the most reputable resources are located in our resource Directory.
Set a Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend on your collection and stick to it. While many postcards are affordable, rare or antique postcards can be more expensive. Set limits to avoid overspending.
Focus on Condition and Rarity: Pay attention to the condition of the postcards you buy. Look for cards that are free of tears, creases, stains, and fading. Postcards in good condition with sharp images, vibrant colors, and intact edges are more desirable. Rarity also affects value, so seek out postcards that are uncommon or limited in production.
Preserve and Store Properly: Store your collection in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent damage from light, humidity, or temperature fluctuations. Use archival-quality materials, such as acid-free albums, sleeves, and boxes, to protect your postcards from dust, moisture, and discoloration.
Document Your Collection: Keep a catalog or inventory of your collection, including details such as the postcard's date, publisher, location, condition, and any unique features. This will help you track your collection, plan future acquisitions, and manage insurance.
Stay Informed on Market Trends: Follow postcard collecting news, price guides, and market trends to stay informed about the value and popularity of certain types of postcards. This can help you make informed buying and selling decisions.
While many collectors are motivated by a love for postcards and history, some postcards, especially rare or iconic ones, can appreciate significantly in value over time. Factors that contribute to a postcard's value include its age, rarity, condition, subject matter, and demand among collectors. For example, rare real photo postcards, artist-signed cards, and postcards commemorating significant historical events can fetch high prices at auctions.
However, like any collectible market, the value of postcards can be unpredictable, and investing in them comes with risks. Collectors who see postcards as an investment should research thoroughly and stay informed about market trends.
Collecting postcards is a delightful hobby that offers endless opportunities for discovery, learning, and enjoyment. Whether you are captivated by vintage photographs, artistic illustrations, or historical records, postcards provide a window into the past and a journey around the world. With passion, research, and care, you can build a collection that reflects your interests, preserves a piece of history, and connects you with a global community of enthusiasts who share your love for these small but powerful works of art.
